Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine – four years ago today – Jesuit Missions, as part of the Xavier Network, has worked alongside Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) Europe to support more than 150,000 people impacted by the war.
The One Proposal project has provided 822,948 individual services and has utilised more than €11.6 million of funding.
Despite this, almost 11 million people are still in need of assistance, and many in Ukraine remain at risk, with 2025 marking the deadliest year for civilians since the war broke out.
One beneficiary, 48-year-old Anhelina*, has spoken about experiences of moving to Poland and how a language course supported by the One Proposal has given her hope of a new life.
What has changed the most for you since the beginning of the war?
We set off on a long journey, taking with us four terrified cats, which cried like sirens the whole way. It was another challenge. The most difficult thing after our arrival to Poland was finding a place to live. At first, I stayed in Łódź, and then I looked for opportunities to move to Warsaw – closer to my grandson. The biggest challenge was maintaining ties with my family.
How did you first come in contact with JRS?
While looking for Polish language courses, I heard about the JRS Foundation from Ukrainians. They spoke warmly about cultural events, prayers for Ukraine, and the atmosphere of support.
What kind of support did you receive?
The first step was intensive Polish language lessons. As soon as the opportunity arose, I signed up for the courses. They are really high quality – we are taught by experienced, empathetic teachers who understand what I have been through.
How did this help you or your family?
It is important that the courses last for five months – this gives me a real chance to learn the language. It also allowed me to be independent in everyday life. And to feel a little bit “at home” in Poland.
What does the presence of JRS mean for you personally?
I would like to especially thank the team and management of the JRS Foundation. They are extremely warm and open people. Their kindness and warmth really give us strength. I am extremely grateful to the foundation’s management for their trust and support during such a difficult time for me. They helped me start working on myself in new life circumstances. It means that I don’t just dwell on the past, but also start thinking about the future with optimism. That is why I proposed a volunteer initiative – the “Space for Peace” program – psychological support for Ukrainian migrants. I really want to help them adapt better and find their place in their new reality.
What keeps you strong or gives you hope on difficult days?
Living in a new country without knowing the language is a huge challenge. But from the very beginning, we felt warmth and openness from the Polish people. For three years, we have encountered nothing but kindness and support. This moves us deeply – and inspires us to help others.
What are your dreams for the future?
I see how much psychological support Ukrainians need: victims of war, orphaned children, widows, parents who have lost their children. The war has left us with many invisible wounds… I dream of supporting my compatriots in healing their wounds and enduring the pain after such a great tragedy. So that we can continue to build our future and rebuild our country on the ruins of war, rebuild our bonds, families and friendships.
What message would you like to share with people in Europe who continue to follow the situation of refugees and displaced people from Ukraine?
After everything that has happened, it is difficult to look to the future with complete peace of mind. But I continue to provide psychological support to people, learn about Polish society, and prepare to establish my own organization-based on knowledge, experience, and heart. I want to continue learning the language and get to know the history and traditions of Poland better. I believe in a bright future for our two brotherly nations – Poland and Ukraine. Good relations, respect, and cooperation multiply goodness and light.
*not her real name
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